Photo by James Short.
The student-organized, non-district-sanctioned walkout was held for 40 minutes during sixth-period classes
About 125 students participated in a student-organized walkout at North Penn High School on Friday afternoon in a demonstration supporting immigrant families.
The event lasted about 40 minutes during sixth-period classes and was not sanctioned by the North Penn School District.
"I am pleased to report that the event proceeded calmly and safely," Principal Kyle Hassler wrote to parents post-event. "Although it was not school sponsored, NPSD staff and Towamencin Township Police were present to ensure safety and order."
Students gathered outside near the front of the school holding signs expressing opposition to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, emblazoned with messages like "Families Belong Together," "Without due process, it's kidnapping," and "America was built by immigrants."
District officials did not comment on the walkout, but rather shared an email Thursday that it sent out to high school parents notifying them of the event.
Officials had previously notified families that students who left class during instructional time would be marked as skipping and subject to standard school consequences, including not receiving credit for missed work.
Administrators also said staff would supervise students who participated and that only students and staff would be permitted on campus during the walkout window for safety reasons.
Instruction continued as scheduled for students who remained in class.
There were no reports of counterprotests or major disruptions associated with the demonstration.
Individuals, parents and media who attended the walkout who were not high school students were kept off school property and on the Upper Gwynedd side of Valley Forge Road by school security.
Hassler said the students who walked out will receive standard consequences for cutting class.
"In the building, NPHS staff ensured appropriate supervision and instruction continued as scheduled for students who chose not to participate," Hassler said. "Thank you to everyone for helping the day run smoothly. Moments like this reflect our shared commitment to maintaining a safe school environment for all."
